Discuss the different types of equipment needed for screen printing. Topics include manual screen printing presses, automatic presses, dryers, folding machines, starter kits and high end machines.
I am dizzy trying to sift through these great forums so sorry for a question that has been asked many times before.
WHAT EQUIPMENT SHOULD I GET? Yes, I'm shouting out my frustrations.
I am a one man show looking to break into the biz slowly and realistically if possible. I want to be able to print up to 4 colors. I don't need to print a ton of shirts, maybe 100 a day, and perhaps get a unit that could handle more if needed. I'm so "green" I don't even know what other info to post here. All I know is that I'm very confused and I want to make the right choice the first time out.
Re: Toss a newbie a bone - which equipment to buy?
Check craigslist for a hopkins press. a 4 or 6 color would be a great start. It is possible to find one that's messy with plastisol or spray tack and then use some lacquer thinner and elbow grease and make it a great running press. We did that bought a press and dryer for 800 then 2 months later sold the press for 1200 because it was "clean" Good luck
Re: Toss a newbie a bone - which equipment to buy?
Hey Brian,
I know exactly how you feel. There's so much...it's hard to keep up! Don't be like me...try to get some sleep @ night. The site's not going on any place.
Re: Toss a newbie a bone - which equipment to buy?
Here are a couple of thoughts:
1. Buy a used press with a quality micro-registration system. The first place a newbie is tempted to save money is by buying a entry-level press without micros. It's certainly possible to get a job into registration without micros, it's just much, much more time-consuming. You'd be better off saving up for a used press with micros than to buy an entry-level table top press or the like. 100 shirts a day is a great goal for a newbie, and you'll find yourself MUCH happier with a press which features micros.
2. Spend the money on a quality flash unit. It'd be awesome if you could get a used conveyor dryer, but it's likely out of your price range to start. Regardless, make sure you buy a nice flash, since you're likely to be using it to both flash AND cure in the beginning. Don't waste your time by trying to use a heat gun to cure...you'll grow a long beard waiting for that to get the job done.
3. Buy a laser temp gun. They're very inexpensive at Harbor Freight, and will give you a good idea of when your shirts are cured. Also use the "stretch test" to back up your temp gun.
4. Get aluminum screens right from the start. They're a little more expensive, but nothing will set you back more quickly than a warped wooden frame.
5. You'll be surprised at how many ways you can save money by making things yourself. Don't bother buying a washout tub, just make one out of a used shower stall or utility sink. Hell, you can even use a shower curtain and a floor drain with filter. Don't buy a dip tank, make one out of a cut-off 55 gal barrel. Build your own screen drying racks or just use stacked 2 x 4 blocks. Build your own high-quality exposure unit with a 1000-watt metal halide lamp. Instructions for all of these items exist on these forums.
That's a pretty good start. Talk with as many experienced screenprinters as you can--they've got good advice which will save you time and money. Good luck!
Re: Toss a newbie a bone - which equipment to buy?
I tell you what was a big help to me.
Buy the 6hr "Printing 101" dvd that Ryonet sells. (silkscreeningsupplies.com)
When I was wanting to get into screenprinting, I didn't even know what all I needed.....like you........
this was a huge help. Also, I went to their two day class.........that put me ahead of the curve BIG TIME. There's nothing like hands on to really learn.
But, start with the dvd......you won't be sorry.
Re: Toss a newbie a bone - which equipment to buy?
I agree with Mattvon on trying to build a lot of the basic items. However I think you should start with an entry level press. That will allow you to figure out the press that you want. Micros are not important at this stage. It is all about lining the artwork up to begin with (which yoou can make a registration board). You need to make sure you get a big flash which you could also use to cure, for now. You really need to start as basic as possible, because you will have a lot to learn to begin with.
Re: Toss a newbie a bone - which equipment to buy?
I'd recommend a Hopkins press as well with the micro adjust feature. get a good conveyor dryer...longer the better and gas is cheaper to run than electric driers in most cities.
Re: Toss a newbie a bone - which equipment to buy?
MAttvon
Man - that was very good advice. Thank you very much for taking the time to help out. I really appreciate it. Any tips on how to buy a used unit? Any brands you like more than others?
Re: Toss a newbie a bone - which equipment to buy?
Quote:
Originally Posted by Celtic
I tell you what was a big help to me.
Buy the 6hr "Printing 101" dvd that Ryonet sells. (silkscreeningsupplies.com)
When I was wanting to get into screenprinting, I didn't even know what all I needed.....like you........
this was a huge help. Also, I went to their two day class.........that put me ahead of the curve BIG TIME. There's nothing like hands on to really learn.
But, start with the dvd......you won't be sorry.
good luck to you!
Denise
I would love to do something like that. I will try to find the DVD used. DO you still have the set and would you be willing to sell it?
Toss a newbie a bone - which equipment to buy? 
